KISHTWAR: In a shining example of innovation, teamwork, and environmental responsibility, the Department of Botany at Government Degree College (GDC) Kishtwar has established the institution’s first-ever vertical garden — a sustainable project built entirely with recycled plastic bottles.

The initiative was made possible through the visionary support of Principal Prof. Basharat Iqbal and the leadership of Head of the Department of Botany, Prof. Satish Kumar, who has consistently encouraged green and student-led innovations on campus.

Under the dedicated supervision of Prof. Asma Javaid, the project came to life with active participation from Semester VI students, who enthusiastically embraced each stage — collecting, preparing, and planting over 50 reused plastic bottles.

The garden now features a colorful collection of plants such as Salvia, Catharanthus, Dianthus, Geraniums and succulents, breathing new life into the campus environment.

The project reflects the remarkable commitment and collaboration of the faculty. Prof. Asma Javaid brought creativity and hands-on leadership to the effort, while Dr. Deepak Chauhan, Dr. Hassan Jaleel, Dr. Arshad, and Dr. Opender Surmal offered their expertise and tireless support throughout. Their collective efforts ensured the scientific, aesthetic, and educational success of the initiative.

The interdisciplinary spirit was further strengthened by Dr. Shazia Tabassum from the Department of Zoology, whose collaboration enriched the outcome. Special acknowledgement goes to Jahangeer Sheikh and Shahid Hussain Giri, whose technical assistance and dedication were invaluable, as well as Talat Samreen and Rehan Kousar for their enthusiastic contributions.

Senior faculty members including Nain Kumar (Head, Department of Physics), Prof. Ajeet and Prof. Jai Deep also extended their support and appreciation, applauding the Botany Department’s innovative mindset and commitment to sustainability. This vertical garden stands as a proud symbol of faculty mentorship, student creativity and institutional leadership, marking a new chapter in GDC Kishtwar’s journey toward eco-conscious education and campus greening.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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